The 10th-Grade Version (2022): DSC Vice President – A Memorable Beginning
Kim Minseo stood there—steady, optimistic, and composed—before teachers and nearly 50 student representatives to run for the Dewey Student Council (DSC). Instead of opening with lofty promises or lengthy plans, she chose to share an iconic photograph: a pack of wolves crossing a snow-covered plain, captured by photographer Chadden Hunter and featured in BBC’s Frozen Planet. “Wolves are strong not because of each individual, but because of the discipline and unity that bind them together.”
That spirit became the foundation of Minseo’s approach to the DSC in her very first year at Dewey: leading through discipline by example, fostering unity, and collaborating to achieve shared goals. Her year as DSC Vice President might have been quiet, but its impact was firm and unmistakably hers. She infused DSC activities with a multicultural spirit—creating a space where Korean and Vietnamese students learned to connect, harmonize, respect, and understand one another.
Photo by Chadden Hunter, BBC/NHU
The 11th–12th Grade Version (2023–2024): President of Tapestry Journal Club – Holder of Five 5-Star Credentials
Minseo joined the TDS community with the thoughtfulness, optimism, and disciplined demeanor characteristic of Korean students. But what truly set her apart at Dewey was her academic excellence paired with genuine humility. She learned, lived, and matured among her Vietnamese teachers and friends with sincerity, simplicity, and warmth.
From a quiet 10th grader, Minseo began pushing her own boundaries: founding the Dewey Tapestry Journal Club; taking on five challenging AP courses and earning perfect scores in all; achieving an SAT score of 1540; and continuously honing essential soft skills—including learning Vietnamese and cooking Vietnamese dishes.
In every activity, Minseo became a subtle yet powerful bridge between two cultures—a role she carried with rare humility and heart for someone her age.
A Journey of Growth Inspired by the Spirit of “Daring to Experience”
Minseo once admitted she used to fear failure. Yet at Dewey, she learned that “growing up means daring to step out of your comfort zone.” Embracing challenges helped her courageously establish the Dewey Tapestry Journal Club, run for DSC elections, and sign up for five demanding AP subjects. These experiences strengthened her discipline, independence, leadership, communication, time management, and empathy. Through running a club and collaborating with passionate peers, she discovered what truly excites her—and learned how to pursue goals while working effectively with others.
Additionally, Dewey’s university counseling program provided ongoing guidance, helping her explore global institutions and learn from the application journeys of alumni.
During her time at Dewey, Minseo gained a vital life skill: the courage to challenge herself. That mindset helped her achieve the first major milestone of her life—admission to her dream university. Whenever she faces difficulties or worries about the future, she reminds herself that failure is acceptable. Each challenge, regardless of outcome, contributes to personal growth and fuels her determination to move forward.
The 2025–2026 Version: Full Speed Ahead to Korea University
When Minseo received her acceptance letter to the Business Administration program at Korea University—one of South Korea’s oldest and most prestigious universities—the entire TDS faculty shared the pride and joy with her family. They understood that this achievement was not only a testament to her academic strength, but also a milestone marking a beautiful, meaningful journey of growth.
From Korea, Minseo shared that she still thinks of Dewey every day and looks forward to officially beginning her first semester in March 2026. Her “luggage” is far more than impressive scores—it includes the discipline of Korean culture, the warm heart she nurtured in Vietnam, and the confidence of a global citizen. Her teachers at TDS continue to follow her journey with pride.
OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS
- SAT: 1540
- AP: Perfect scores (5) in all five subjects
Calculus BC, AB Subscore, Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, Psychology - Leadership: Vice President, Dewey Student Council (DSC)
- Academics & Communications: President, Dewey Tapestry Journal Club
The remarkable AP and SAT results serve as a “passport” enabling Dewey students to gain admission to top global universities. On that proud journey, Kim Minseo stands as a beautiful connection between Korea and Vietnam—bridging the chapters she has completed and the many new ones awaiting her ahead.
